Giant puppets to invade Ritz Theater

Giant puppets will take the stage of the Ritz Civic Center at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, when The Arts Council of Mississippi County hosts Bits 'N Pieces Puppet Theatre with their giant puppet musical, "Three Billy Goats Gruff."

This is a mammoth musical featuring 9-foot-tall puppets and a live actress. The lead character is played by actress and puppet builder Holli Rubin. Puppeteer and lyricist Jerry Bickel performs as the giant puppet.

The musical was inspired by the old Norwegian tale of standing up to those who try to intimidate you and hinder your progress. The transformed classic becomes a musical fable for modern times. Blending elements of music, lighting, special set design, sound, costumes and puppets of all sizes, the story comes to life on stage.

Bits 'N Pieces Theatre has been creating original musical productions adapted from classic children's literature for 36 years. Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., the company spends most of the year on national tour. This season's touring production has thrilled audiences across the United States and around the world.

"Three Billy Goats Gruff" is the final event of the 2013-14 Series presented by The Arts Council. Adult tickets are $10, and children 12 and under are admitted free with an adult.

For more information, call 870-762-1744, or visit www.artsmissco.org.